Survivor stories on view at MSU Union through March 14

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The Union at Michigan State University is featuring the exhibition, “We Are Worth Everything: Survivors as Themselves.” This display captures survivors of traumatic experiences in the MSU community and beyond. 

Associate Director and professor of practice in the School of Journalism at MSU, Judith Walgren, collaborated with survivors to produce this gallery. 

“When I Googled the survivors, I found a lot of photographs of women crying or looking traumatized during the court sentencing phase of their abuser,” Walgren said. “The next group of photographs were from the ESPN ESPY, awards where most of the women were dressed in evening wear.”

This inspired Walgren to shine a light from a new angle on the women and their experiences.

Walgren said every human has their own unique characteristics, backgrounds and personalities, so these portraits wanted to represent that. Portraits of survivors have been created and the project is an ongoing series.

The exhibit opened on Feb. 3, and is open to everyone in the community. 

Jacquelynn Sullivan, director of the Department of Art, Art History and Design, maintains the gallery. 

“This display is shown until March 14,” Sullivan said. “It is open from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Noon to 7 p.m on Fridays. Saturdays, 10 a.m to 2 p.m.” 

Director of the Department of Art, Art History and Design Jacquelynn Sullivan

 Michigan State University student Raeann Worrall said it is important for people to hear the survivors’ stories.

“I think this gallery is a big deal and the community should support it,” Worrall said. “I think this show is very personal. Throughout history, women have been oppressed, so it’s a good idea their voices are heard now more than ever.”

Raeann Worrall, Michigan State University student

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